LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION mourning the death of John J. Finley, distin-
guished citizen and devoted member of his community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and
WHEREAS, John J. Finley of Hudson, New York, died on July 2, 2015, at
the age of 68; and
WHEREAS, A native of Falls Church, Virginia, John J. Finley was the
son of Judge William Thompson Finley and Mary Jordan Finley; and
WHEREAS, John J. Finley earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from
Harvard College, graduating cum laude in 1968; following graduation, he
returned home and attended the University of Virginia School of Law
where he received his Juris Doctor in 1971; and
WHEREAS, John J. Finley distinguished himself in his profession and by
his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the welfare of
his community; and
WHEREAS, For over 20 years, this esteemed man practiced law in New
York City, where he was a partner at the law offices of Stairs, Dillen-
beck, and Finley; and
WHEREAS, John J. Finley's commitment to excellence, and his spirit of
humanity, carried over into all fields of enterprise, including charita-
ble and civic endeavors; he volunteered extensively with the British
American Chamber of Commerce, serving as its Chairman for two terms in
the 1990s, and was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire
by Queen Elizabeth II for his devoted service; and
WHEREAS, A true gentleman and scholar, John J. Finley was a voracious
reader, and a gifted writer and musician; he also enjoyed history, jazz,
literature, films, baseball and golf; and
WHEREAS, Born of a proud Scottish heritage, John J. Finley was known
for hosting wonderful Robbie Burns parties for his family and many
friends; he will be remembered for his incredible intellect, and many
talents, as well as for his remarkable kindness and wit; and
WHEREAS, Predeceased by his parents and two siblings, William Jr. and
Mary Anne, John J. Finley is survived by his beloved wife, Judith, their
two children, John (Chase), and Jacqueline; one grandson, John, Jr.; his
sister-in-law, Julie; and brother-in-law Gary; as well as numerous niec-
es, nephews and cherished friends; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, John J. Finley leaves behind a legacy which will long endure
the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all he
served and befriended; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of John J. Finley, distinguished citizen and devoted
member of his community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of John J. Finley.